According to recent general acceptance, vitamin D, which is seen as a multifunctional hormone or hormone precursor, is also involved in many metabolic processes in our body. It is known that it plays a key role especially in the skeletal system. In addition to playing an active role in bone health, since it also determines the quality of the bone, it can lead to cancer, fibromygia, and chronic pain in the musculoskeletal system. It also affects the autoimmune, cardiovascular and neurological systems.
It is known that vitamin D plays an active role in upper and lower respiratory tract infections. In a meta-analysis study that examined 27 studies conducted during the pandemic period, it was observed that the hospitalization period of those with vitamin D deficiency was prolonged.
Diseases such as rickets, osteomalasia, hypophosphatemia (familial or secondary disease), renal osteodystrophy and corticosteroid-induced osteoporosis are associated with vitamin D.
According to the research conducted in February 2021, low vitamin D levels increase the risk of Type-2 diabetes and insulin resistance. Waist circumference and BMI measurements were observed to be higher in those with low vitamin D levels. To prevent insulin resistance, the average vitamin D level should be 25 nmol/L.
Since it is effective in cell differentiation and proliferation, it prevents the risk of cancer development by stimulating apoptosis (cell death) of cancer cells. It is also effective in the treatment of psoriasis.
Although vitamin D has many benefits, its deficiency is very common worldwide. A serum 25-dihydroxyvitamin D level below 12 ng/mL is defined as 'vitamin D deficiency'.
The main source is sunlight. It would be beneficial to get at least 15-30 minutes of sunlight a day. Sunlight should be received from the forearms with the palms facing up. It should be noted that due to changing climatic conditions, we are exposed not only to the beneficial rays of the sun but also to its harmful rays. Staying under the sun for a long time without applying protection during the summer months can have negative consequences, leading to skin cancer. Wear protective clothing on sunny days, even in winter. Its use is recommended. Everything is fine as it is, it will be enough to take precautions and benefit as much as necessary.
Nutritional sources are eggs, dairy products, fish such as sardines, salmon, mackerel and tuna, fish liver, fish oil, cheese, butter, liver, green lentils, chickpeas, oatmeal and mushrooms. However, the need cannot be fully met with these nutritional sources, and the possibility of benefiting from the sun is very low, especially in the winter months. In some countries, milk, cheese, fruit juice, breakfast cereals and oils are enriched with vitamin D.
Regular blood test checks should be performed and in cases where too many deficiencies are observed, taking supplements with the advice of a doctor should not be neglected.
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